The United Arab Emirates is rapidly adopting e-commerce making it an easy way for businesses to reach the growing market by selling products online. With a tech-savvy population and high internet usage in the country, businesses can consider exploring the potential of selling products through various digital platforms. Nevertheless, if you are planning to start a new venture or expand an existing business, it is important to learn how to sell products online in UAE in order to access a wide range of customers.
Therefore, in this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to get started and sell products online in Dubai.
Choosing to sell products online in Dubai
Selling products through digital means presents numerous advantages for businesses that are striving to tap into the dynamic e-commerce landscape of the region:
- Access to a growing market – The UAE has a tech-savvy population that looks for convenience and variety that comes through shopping online.
- Tax-free income – Businesses operating in the free zones are exempt from corporate tax which enables them to maximize profits when selling online.
- Diverse customer base – The UAE is a multicultural province, blending different nationalities in its population. This allows businesses to access a diverse audience that has varied needs and preferences.
- Ease of business setup – The process of setting up a business online has been streamlined by the UAE government, thus making it easier for business owners to get started as soon as possible.
- Advanced logistics infrastructure – The UAE has excellent logistics facilities and reliable shipping services that support businesses to efficiently reach local and international customers.
- Supportive digital ecosystem – The prevalent internet access, mobile usage, and secure online payment gateways make it easier for businesses to prosper online.
- Global reach – Businesses can rapidly reach local customers and international markets by selling products online. It allows them to expand their consumer base beyond geographical borders.
Types of licenses for online businesses in the UAE
Depending on the model and specific needs of the business, the UAE issues various categories of licenses:-
E-trader license – This license allows individuals to sell products or offer services online. However, they are restricted from engaging in any other commercial activities. It is ideal for those starting their first businesses in the e-commerce sector.
Freelance permit – This permit is designed for professional individuals such as consultants, designers, writers, developers, etc. who wish to provide services online in the UAE. It allows them to work on their own terms legally, access various business facilities, and receive payments from clients.
E-commerce license – This license is issued to those who are planning to set up a large-scale e-commerce business including an exclusive web store. It covers various commercial activities including import, export, manufacture, and more. Furthermore, entities with an e-commerce license are required to have physical offices to carry out their day-to-day operations.
Getting a license for your online business will now be easy and hassle-free when you work with a professional business setup consultant like Shuraa.
How to sell products online in UAE – Top Marketplaces
There are several effective methods to sell products online in the UAE, such as social media marketing, official company websites, and online marketplaces. Below listed are some of the top online marketplaces in the UAE that you can consider for selling your products and services and catering to a wide base of customers –
- Luluwebstore.com: From groceries and household items to electronics and fashion, it offers an extensive range of quality and variety products.
- Facebook Marketplace: This is an accessible platform allowing users to buy and sell products within their community.
- SharafDG.com: This is a leading retailer of electronics and home appliances and a popular choice for consumers looking for the latest tech products and gadgets.
- Noon.com: This central e-commerce platform in the UAE offers various items at competitive prices and fast delivery options.
- Amazon.ae: Users can find a vast selection of products across multiple categories on this platform. For example, electronics, fashion, home goods, etc.
- Mumzworld.com: It mainly focuses on products for mothers and children such as baby essentials, maternity wear, and parenting products.
- Dubaistore.com: This market caters to various needs including health and beauty items, home essentials, and electronics, making it one of the best choices for online shopping.
- Carrefouruae.com: Backed by the trusted Carrefour brand, it delivers a comprehensive selection of groceries, household items, and electronics.
- LetsTango.com: It accommodates a wide array of electronics, gadgets, and lifestyle products at competitive pricing and frequent deals.
- Dragonmart.ae: It features a diverse range of products, reflecting the variety available at its physical stores.
How to sell products online in UAE: Step-by-step process
To sell products online in Dubai, it is essential to obtain a relevant license. By getting the right guidance from the experts of Shuraa, you can make the process much easier.
Determine your business structure –
The primary step is to determine the legal structure of your online business, whether you want to operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or Limited Liability Company (LLC). Each legal structure in the UAE has different requirements and benefits.
Choose a business activity –
After selecting an appropriate structure, define the specific online selling activities you want to engage in, such as retail, wholesale, or e-commerce.
Register a business name –
Choose a unique business name that complies with local regulations and register it with the relevant authorities. Make sure you don’t choose any existing names. It’s always check out the DED naming guidelines before concluding.
Gather the required documents –
The documents required for this process are a passport copy, proof of residence, and a business plan. Authorities may also ask for additional documentation in some cases.
Apply for an e-commerce license –
The process of how to sell products online in UAE requires you to obtain an e-commerce license. If you are opting for a mainland license, you need to apply through the Department of Economic Development (DED). Similarly, for a free zone e-commerce license, you need to approach directly to the free zone authority.
Whichever option you choose, you can legally operate your business, reach customers across the UAE, and expand into other markets.
Obtain additional approvals –
Certain activities may require you to acquire approval from other government departments or regulatory bodies.
Pay the license fee –
To get a license, the business owners are required to pay applicable licensing fees, which may vary based on the business structure and the type of license.
Open a bank account –
You need to open a corporate bank account to facilitate the financial transactions of your business.
Once all the steps are duly completed, you will receive your license and operate legally in the country. If you have any confusion regarding any of the steps, contact the experts of Shuraa Business Setup.
Final thoughts
Thus, by selling products online, you can reach a growing, tech-savvy market in the UAE No is the time to explore how to sell products online in UAE. For better outcomes, you can effectively connect with the professionals of Shuraa Business Setup who can help you choose the right platforms and utilize social media for marketing. They will help you set up your business in Dubai and succeed in the e-commerce landscape of the UAE.
Contact Shuraa at +97144081900, or send a WhatsApp message to +971507775554. You can also email info@shuraa.com
